Vernon Couch to 5K program to begin soon

VERNON — The Department of Community Affairs and Recreation will launch its third season of the Couch to 5k program on April 22.

The group meets Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10 a.m. or 6:30 p.m. and Sundays at 9 a.m. at Maple Grand Park. The program cost is $40, which includes a written program to follow, a T-shirt and entry into the Vernon Day 5k on June 8.

The program is coached by Director of Community Affairs Missi Wiedbrauk and Cherie Shortway, with a lot of assistant coaches including Laurie Studley, Lori Wilt and Jennifer Stella.

The Couch to 5k program is a gradual fitness program designed for brand new runners, and culminates with the Vernon Day 5k, where everyone accomplishes their goal of successfully running and/or walking the 3.1 mile course.

The group meets and laughs together, faces a lot of uphill (literally) challenges and then celebrates together as well. The group shares nutrition tips, motivational quotes, playlists and usually a pre-race pasta party.

It's a gradual buildup of running time, but a rapid increase of confidence, and it's a great feeling on race day to see these folks cross the finish line.

To join this group and share our motivation sign up online at www.communitypass.net and sign in or set up an account. Select 'Vernon Recreation' and then '2014 Couch to 5k.'

For questions or more information contact Missi Wiedbrauk at 973-764-4055, Ext. 2261 or mwiedbrauk@vernontwp.com.